We note that Chief Executive Carrie Lam of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) announced today that the SAR government decided to suspend work on the Fugitive Offenders and Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters Legislation (Amendment) Bill 2019. The Spokesperson of the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council has released a statement on this. The Chinese Central Government expresses its support, respect and understanding for the SAR government's decision and will continue its staunch support for Chief Executive Carrie Lam and the SAR government in governing Hong Kong in accordance with law and upholding the SAR's prosperity and stability with people from all sectors.

Since the return of Hong Kong, the policy of "one country, two systems" and Hong Kong people governing Hong Kong with a high degree of autonomy has been faithfully implemented. The rights and freedoms of Hong Kong residents have been fully guaranteed according to law. The facts are there for all to see. Maintaining Hong Kong's prosperity and stability serves not only China's interests, but also the interests of all countries across the world. I would like to emphasize that Hong Kong is China's SAR and its affairs are purely China's internal affairs that brook no interference from any country, organization or individual. China's determination to safeguard its sovereignty, security and development interests and uphold Hong Kong's prosperity and stability is rock solid.